BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday claimed that a planned and coordinated campaign is underway to damage the reputation of the party and its acting chairman, Tarique Rahman.
Speaking at a book launch in Dhaka, Fakhrul described the situation as a serious threat to what he called the nationalist political force in Bangladesh.
Targeted Propaganda and Political Elimination
“One thing we must remember is that a targeted propaganda and campaign is going on,” he told the audience. “A specific conspiracy lies behind it with the aim to destroy Bangladesh’s nationalist forces and eliminate and defame the rising leader Tarique Rahman.”
Fakhrul said the party is currently experiencing what he described as a “serious and well-planned cyber-attack.” He claimed the attacks are coming from multiple directions, with the primary target being Tarique Rahman himself.
Tarique Named Directly, BNP Feels the Pressure
He noted that this is the first time Tarique has been explicitly named in such digital campaigns. “There is an effort to defame him and harm his reputation by spreading many things. This is extremely alarming,” he said.
The event marked the launch of a book titled Tarique Rahman: The Hope of Bangladesh, edited by Shahidul Islam Babul, the general secretary of Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal.
Youth Engagement and Cyber Preparedness
Fakhrul called on BNP’s younger members to better understand the party’s political philosophy. He said many lack the intellectual preparation needed to respond effectively in today’s digital environment.
“They need to truly understand and embrace BNP’s political ideology. Without this, they will not be able to find their rightful place in politics,” he said.
He also acknowledged a weakness within the party when it comes to digital readiness. “The big weakness of our BNP is that our people do not want to read. This habit must be changed. We need to read. The more we gain knowledge, the stronger we can fight.”
Calls for Merit-Based Activism
Fakhrul called for merit-based activism, particularly in online spaces, where he said narratives are often shaped.
“There is no alternative to fighting with intelligence and applying merit,” he said. “We need to move forward with that merit. Young cyber warriors need to come forward with their intellect.”
He also recalled the contribution of online BNP supporters during previous political movements, vowing to support them in future efforts.
Strengthening BNP’s Digital Footprint
Admitting that the party remains weak in cyberspace, Fakhrul encouraged the expansion of BNP’s presence on social media.
“Social media platforms now have strong influence over people alongside traditional print, electronic, and online media,” he said. “We must strengthen our party’s presence online, and young people should take the lead in this effort.”
Book Focuses on Tarique Rahman’s Political Journey
Unveiled at the event, the book follows Tarique Rahman’s rise in politics, his experiences during the 1/11 crackdown, and his thoughts on running a state.
Fakhrul concluded by praising Tarique’s leadership, calling him a symbol of hope for Bangladesh’s future.
